NXP Semiconductors MKL26Z128VFM4

Overview

MKL26Z128VFM4 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Freescale) is a 48 MHz ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller in 32-pin QFN package, featuring 128 KB flash, 16 KB SRAM, USB 2.0 On-The-Go with on-chip transceiver, 16-bit SAR ADC, and ultra-low-power operation down to 0.23 µA in VLLS0 mode. It serves as an entry-level 32-bit MCU for battery-powered human-machine interface and sensor-edge applications.

For engineers reviewing the MKL26Z128VFM4 datasheet, MKL26Z128VFM4 pinout, MKL26Z128VFM4 application, or MKL26Z128VFM4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 32-pin QFN footprint, 23 GPIOs, integrated USB PHY and 5 V-to-3.3 V regulator, low-leakage wakeup unit, and support for nine power modes - especially critical for portable medical devices, smart sensors, and energy-harvesting nodes requiring sub-µA sleep current with fast 4.5 µs wake-up.

Technical Context

The MKL26Z128VFM4 implements a single-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor with Bit Manipulation Engine and Micro Trace Buffer, executing from zero-wait-state flash memory. Its clock system integrates MCG with multiple modes (FEI, FBE, BLPI, PEE), supporting internal 4 MHz/32 kHz IRC and external crystals up to 16 MHz.

System-level features include a 4-channel DMA controller servicing 63 request sources, COP watchdog, low-power timer (LPTMR), real-time clock, and TSI-based hardware touch sensing. Analog subsystem comprises 16-bit SAR ADC (up to 16 channels), 12-bit DAC, and analog comparator with embedded 6-bit DAC reference.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

32-pin QFN (VFM4 suffix), 5 mm × 5 mm × 1 mm body, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad. Pinout validated per KL26P64M48SF5 datasheet Rev 5 Section 5.2 (KL26 pinouts) and package drawing 98ASA00473D1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar microcontroller applications.

Compared with KL26Z128VLH4, MKL26Z128VFM4 trades I/O count and package size for compactness and lower assembly cost; compared with MKE02Z64VQH2, it adds USB OTG, doubles RAM, and enables richer HMI - making MKL26Z128VFM4 optimal for USB-connected, touch-enabled edge nodes where space and integration matter most.

Availability

MKL26Z128VFM4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable health monitors, smart industrial sensor nodes, USB-capable smart home actuators, and energy-harvesting remote controls requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for MKL26Z128VFM4 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor leader focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT markets, with deep expertise in ARM-based microcontrollers and edge processing.

The Kinetis KL26 sub-family - including MKL26Z128VFM4 - was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, USB-integrated, touch-enabled edge applications demanding high integration density and long battery life in compact form factors.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the MKL26Z128VFM4 core?

The MKL26Z128VFM4 features an ARM Cortex-M0+ core rated for up to 48 MHz operation in normal run mode. This frequency is supported by the on-chip flash controller with zero wait states, enabling deterministic real-time performance. The MKL26Z128VFM4 also supports lower-frequency operation in VLPR mode (up to 4 MHz) for further power reduction while maintaining full peripheral functionality.

Does the MKL26Z128VFM4 include an integrated USB transceiver?

Yes, the MKL26Z128VFM4 includes a full-/low-speed USB 2.0 On-The-Go controller with an integrated transceiver and a built-in 5 V-to-3.3 V regulator. This eliminates the need for external USB PHY components and simplifies design for USB-connected applications. The MKL26Z128VFM4 supports both host and device roles, and the USB interface operates natively at 3.3 V logic levels.

How many GPIO pins does the MKL26Z128VFM4 provide in its 32-pin QFN package?

The MKL26Z128VFM4 in the 32-pin QFN (VFM4) package provides 23 general-purpose input/output pins, as confirmed in the official Freescale/Kinetis KL26 ordering information table. These GPIOs support multiple functions including UART, SPI, I2C, ADC input, TSI channel, and PWM output, with configurable pull-up/pull-down and interrupt capability on most pins.

What is the lowest power consumption mode available on the MKL26Z128VFM4?

The MKL26Z128VFM4 supports Very-Low-Leakage Stop Mode 0 (VLLS0) with typical current consumption of 0.23 µA at 3.0 V and 25°C when PORPO = 1, retaining full register and RAM state. This mode enables multi-year battery life in always-on sensor and HMI applications. Wake-up time from VLLS0 is under 10 µs, with documented 4.5 µs recovery to active RUN mode.

Is the MKL26Z128VFM4 compatible with other Kinetis L-series MCUs?

Yes, the MKL26Z128VFM4 is software- and pin-compatible within the Kinetis L family and maintains compatibility with the Kinetis K2x family at the peripheral driver and toolchain level. This enables scalable development across performance tiers. However, pin compatibility is limited to same-package variants (e.g., MKL26Z64VFM4); cross-package migration (e.g., to VFT4 or VLH4) requires PCB redesign despite functional equivalence.